In a significant diplomatic shift, Prime Minister Mark Carney made headlines this week with his visit to Saudi Arabia, marking the first trip by a Canadian prime minister to the kingdom in 26 years. The trip aims to bolster trade and investment ties, a departure from the strained relations that characterised his predecessor’s approach due to human rights issues and the notorious 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Carney’s meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has sparked both support and criticism, as he seeks to navigate the complexities of foreign relations in pursuit of economic diversification.
Re-establishing Ties and New Initiatives
During his visit, Carney met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to establish the Canada-Saudi Arabia Co-ordination Council. This initiative aims to enhance collaboration across various sectors, including defence and trade. Carney emphasised the necessity of diversifying Canada’s economic partnerships, particularly to reduce reliance on the United States.
“Engagement is not endorsement,” Carney asserted during a press conference in Jeddah. “Engaging with a country does not imply agreement with all its policies.” He further critiqued the effectiveness of distant lecturing on human rights, stating that it often yields little result. Instead, he argues for a pragmatic approach that prioritises dialogue, even with nations that have contentious human rights records.
New Defence and Investment Agreements
As part of the renewed diplomatic efforts, Canada is set to re-establish the role of a defence attaché in its Riyadh embassy. This move signals a commitment to strengthening defence ties. Additionally, the two nations are expected to formalise a foreign investment protection and promotion agreement by the end of 2027. This treaty aims to create legally binding standards for the treatment of investors, providing a framework for safer capital investments across borders.
Furthermore, Carney announced that representatives from Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund will attend the inaugural Canada Investment Summit this September in Toronto. In a reciprocal gesture, Canadian Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne will soon lead a delegation to Saudi Arabia to explore new investment prospects.
Criticism of a Transactional Approach
While Carney’s diplomatic overtures aim to reshape Canada’s foreign policy landscape, they have not been without controversy. Former Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy has expressed unease with what he describes as Carney’s “transactional” approach to foreign policy, arguing that it undermines a progressive legacy built over decades. “It’s not just Justin Trudeau’s legacy he’s erasing; it’s years of Liberal principles,” Axworthy lamented.
The diplomatic rift between Canada and Saudi Arabia began in 2018 when the Canadian government publicly condemned the arrest of political activists in the kingdom. This led to a series of retaliatory measures, including the expulsion of Canada’s ambassador from Riyadh and a freeze on new trade agreements. The fallout deepened with the global outcry over Khashoggi’s brutal murder, an act that has since highlighted the kingdom’s extensive use of transnational repression.
Navigating Human Rights Concerns
Carney’s administration has reiterated its commitment to human rights, though specific discussions with Saudi leaders on these issues were not disclosed. When pressed on whether he raised concerns about women’s rights or the treatment of dissenters during his talks, Carney maintained that such conversations are confidential. Critics, including Axworthy, question the effectiveness of engagement without direct references to human rights.
Carney also reflected on past diplomatic interactions, citing a recent conversation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as beneficial in addressing a Canadian consular case. However, the Prime Minister’s claims have been met with scrutiny, as previous records indicate that prior Canadian leaders have engaged with Erdogan, raising questions about the authenticity of his assertions.
Why it Matters
Carney’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies a pivotal moment in Canada’s foreign policy, as it seeks to redefine its relationship with a nation often regarded with suspicion due to its human rights record. While the push for economic diversification and investment opportunities is crucial, the balancing act of engagement without endorsement poses a complex challenge. As Carney navigates this delicate terrain, the implications for Canada’s moral standing on the global stage remain to be seen, highlighting the intricate interplay between economic ambitions and ethical governance.
